Hector Hernández Valle, the ballet instructor whose brilliant coaching catapulted his two sons into the international limelight, has become the mentor for the classic dance program at Ajijic’s Auditorio de la Ribera. 

A U.S. folk art group has authorized a US$6,500-dollar grant to help fund bus transportation for Mexican artisans to attend the 2015 Feria Maestros del Arte, scheduled November 13-15.

Talented musicians from all over Jalisco and points beyond will flock to Chapala over the coming week to engage in the 13th Encuentro de Arpas, Salterios y Mas, an offbeat music festival featuring traditional Mexican and Latin American sounds performed on folk harps, psalteries and a wide array of other string and acoustical instruments. 

A quick glance around Lake Chapala proves that the rich volcanic soil and great weather are the perfect combination for growing corn, onions, raspberries and squash. Who knew this area was also just right to grow enthusiastic ukulele players? 

Last Sunday’s concert by baritone Fernando Loher at the Centro Cultural Gonzalez Gallo was an impressive performance. One of several fund-raisers for his upcoming studies in Berlin, his selection of Bel Canto and Latin American songs provided the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the full range of his exceptional voice.

A series of new projects are underway in the constantly growing and changing Casa de Cultura on the north side of the Ajijic plaza.